Established In 1650, Kings Highway Was Massachusetts’s First Mail Route Between Boston And New York

Every day in Massachusetts, we drive these roads and often complain about potholes or ask, ‘When will the streets be fixed?’ While this isn’t solely about potholes, it’s mainly a concern about aging roads.

Which is the oldest road in the Bay State?

According to Onlyinyourstate.com, the road is known as The King’s Highway. It was established by King Charles II in 1650 and gradually extended south from Boston until 1735. During that period, it served as a primary route for mail delivery between New York City and Boston, with horse-drawn carriages being the only mode of transportation.

What is the length of the King’s Highway?

The King’s Highway stretches 1,300 miles from Boston and Cambridge to New Haven and Fairfield.

Where the King’s Highway begins

From that point, you can drive along the highway to states like New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. You may be thinking, “This all sounds familiar.” However, it’s not Interstate 95.

The King’s Highway links to the two longest U.S. Routes: Route 1, which runs north and south, and Route 20, running east and west. Thus, the oldest highway is right here in Massachusetts, and you likely drive on it every day without noticing…

Story continues

TRENDING NOW

LATEST LOCAL NEWS